The Journey of a Female Miner

working on site

If you are a mining student like me and want to get the most of your experience on a mine site, check out the list below of the do’s and the don’ts! I obviously don’t know everything about mining or working on a camp so feel free to comment any suggestions you may have!

The Do’s

The Don’ts

1. Just starting your first mine job? Feeling a little anxious or overwhelmed? Do relax! Mines can seem like big scary dark places but I can assure you, they are not!

1. Don’t underestimate the importance of safety on a mine site!

2. The first week is usually paperwork and site visit; do pay attention to lunch places, your supervisor’s office and the toilets (everyone has cravings…)

2. Do not come to work late… just don’t.

3. Always wear ALL of the safety equipment before going onsite! And when I say ALL, I mean like ALL of the safety equipment.

3. Don’t expect things to be smooth or easy… mines are rough and bumpy; get used to it.

4. Do get to know you colleagues; what got them into mining, their career path… It helps to break the first-week-awkward silence.

4. Don’t pretend you know it all… you don’t.

5. Do ask questions, any questions… do it.

5. Don’t wait for work to come to you! Try to ask yourself this question every day: how am I creating value today?

6. Since some mine sites are in a galaxy far far away, I do encourage you to make friends at the office!

6. A special one for female miners: you are no different than a man so don’t expect to be treated differently.

7. Learn!! Learn to cook, to clean, to sleep early (that one’s important) and if you have some extra time … you won’t have extra time.